Prepaid Credit Cards Germany
A prepaid credit card in Germany is the ideal solution if you want the benefits of a card without the risks of debt or the hassle of a credit check. These cards work just like Visa or Mastercard for payments – but you load them with funds in advance, making them a smart choice for students, expats, and anyone without a SCHUFA history.
Fast to get, easy to use, and widely accepted, prepaid cards are gaining serious traction in Germany. Here’s what you need to know before getting one.
What Is a Prepaid Credit Card?
A prepaid credit card looks and functions like a regular credit card, but with one key difference: instead of borrowing money, you preload the card with your own funds. You can only spend what you’ve deposited, which eliminates the risk of going into debt or paying interest.
These cards do not involve a credit line or monthly repayment. There’s no need for a SCHUFA credit check, and many issuers don’t require proof of income. That’s why prepaid cards are especially popular among new arrivals in Germany, young adults, and people rebuilding their credit.
You can use a prepaid card for online shopping, in-store payments, travel bookings, and even link it to Apple Pay or Google Pay. Some are physical cards, while others are virtual-only. Because the balance is limited to what you’ve loaded, they also offer an extra layer of security if lost or stolen.
How to Apply for a Prepaid Credit Card
Getting a prepaid credit card in Germany is much easier than applying for a traditional credit card. Most providers don’t require a SCHUFA check, income verification, or even a German bank account. The process is fast, fully digital in many cases, and often completed within minutes.
Step-by-step: How to apply for a prepaid credit card in Germany
- Compare card providers – Check fees, limits, and supported payment networks (Visa/Mastercard).
- Choose your preferred card – Some offer virtual cards only, others include physical delivery.
- Fill out the online application – Provide basic personal details such as name, address, and ID.
- Verify your identity – Usually via video identification or photo ID upload.
- Top up your card – Transfer funds via SEPA, credit card, or bank transfer.
- Start using the card – Once loaded, you can use it for purchases immediately.
Many prepaid card providers are fintech companies, meaning the entire process is handled through an app or website – no need to visit a bank branch.
Prepaid Credit Card vs Debit Card – What Is the Difference?
Prepaid credit cards and debit cards may seem similar – both let you spend only the money you already have. But in Germany, they serve different purposes and are issued in different ways. Understanding the distinction helps you choose the right option based on your needs.
A debit card is linked directly to your Girokonto (current account). Every time you make a purchase, the amount is immediately withdrawn from your bank balance. It’s issued by your bank when you open an account and is commonly used for daily payments and ATM withdrawals.
A prepaid credit card, on the other hand, is a standalone card that you must load manually before use. It’s not tied to a bank account and doesn’t allow overdraft. It’s accepted wherever Visa or Mastercard is supported, including online stores, travel bookings, and subscriptions.
Comparison Table: Prepaid Credit Card vs Debit Card
| Feature | Prepaid Credit Card | Debit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Linked to bank account | No | Yes (Girokonto) |
| Requires SCHUFA check | No | No (but needs bank account) |
| Overdraft possible | No | Sometimes, depending on bank |
| Spending limit | Based on preloaded funds | Based on account balance |
| Suitable for online use | Yes | Yes |
| Physical or virtual | Both available | Usually physical |
| Ideal for | Expats, students, travelers | Everyday local banking |
| Application process | Independent from banks | Issued by your bank |
Pros and Cons of Prepaid Credit Cards in Germany
Prepaid credit cards offer flexibility and accessibility, especially for people who can’t or don’t want to apply for traditional credit. But they’re not perfect. Here’s a breakdown of the main advantages and disadvantages you should know before choosing one.
Pros of Prepaid Credit Cards
- No SCHUFA check: You can apply even without a German credit history.
- No risk of debt: You can only spend what you’ve loaded.
- Accepted worldwide: Works like Visa or Mastercard for payments, online and offline.
- Fast application: Often issued instantly via app or online.
- Good for budgeting: Helps control spending and avoid overdrafts.
- Ideal for expats and students: No need for income proof or a full bank account.
Cons of Prepaid Credit Cards
- No credit building: Usage is not reported to SCHUFA, so it won’t improve your credit score.
- Fees may apply: Some cards have setup fees, monthly fees, or reload charges.
- Limited features: No installment payments, overdraft, or credit perks like cashback.
- Not all cards are equal: Some prepaid cards don’t support recurring payments or car rentals.
- No direct SEPA access: Can’t receive salary or make regular bank transfers with most cards.
Prepaid Credit Card Providers in Germany
Several fintech companies and online banks offer prepaid credit cards in Germany, each with different pricing models, features, and target groups. Below is a selection of the most popular and reliable providers currently available.
Comparison of Top Prepaid Credit Card Providers
| Provider | Card Type | Monthly Fee | Initial Cost | Foreign Fees | Mobile App | Virtual Card |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VIABUY | Mastercard | €0 (after setup) | €69.90 (one-time) | 2.75% | Yes | Yes |
| bunq Travel Card | Mastercard | €0 | €9.99 | Mid-market + fee | Yes | Yes |
| N26 Standard | Debit Mastercard | €0 | €0 | 1.7% ATM abroad | Yes | Yes |
| Wise | Visa or Mastercard | No fixed fee | €7 | Mid-market rate | Yes | Yes |
| Revolut Standard | Mastercard | €0 | €0 | Mid-market rate | Yes | Yes |
Notes on Providers
- VIABUY is a classic prepaid card with strong acceptance, but it comes with a relatively high setup cost. Suitable for those without any bank account.
- bunq Travel Card functions like a credit card but requires no credit check or monthly fees. It’s ideal for travelers.
- N26 Standard is technically a debit card, but works similarly for online and offline payments – and is free.
- Wise offers strong international features, with low conversion fees and fast account setup.
- Revolut is best for tech-savvy users who want a versatile, low-fee card with good travel support.
Types of Prepaid Credit Cards in Germany
Not all prepaid credit cards are the same. Depending on how you plan to use the card — whether for travel, online shopping, or everyday spending — different types offer different features. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories of prepaid credit cards in Germany, so you can choose the right fit for your needs.
Physical Prepaid Credit Cards
These are traditional plastic cards you can use in shops, restaurants, ATMs, or while traveling. They’re widely accepted anywhere Visa or Mastercard is supported. Some providers also allow contactless payments and Apple Pay/Google Pay pairing with the physical card.
They are ideal if you want a reliable payment method for offline use or need a card for identification when booking hotels or car rentals.
Virtual Prepaid Credit Cards
Virtual prepaid cards exist only in digital form. You receive a card number, CVV, and expiration date, but no physical card is issued. These are perfect for online shopping, subscriptions, or for linking to a mobile wallet.
They’re often issued instantly after signup and are widely accepted online. Providers like Wise, Revolut, and bunq offer strong virtual card options, often with advanced features like disposable card numbers for extra security.
Reloadable vs Non-Reloadable Cards
- Reloadable prepaid cards allow you to top up funds multiple times. Most German prepaid providers fall into this category, supporting SEPA transfers or debit card reloads.
- Non-reloadable cards (rare in Germany) are single-use and typically used as gift cards or for limited promotions. Once the balance is used, the card is deactivated.
Prepaid Travel Cards
Designed for international use, these travel cards often come with multi-currency support, favorable exchange rates, and low ATM fees abroad. They are ideal for digital nomads or frequent travelers.
Examples include bunq Travel Card and Wise, which offer low conversion margins and the ability to hold multiple currencies in one account.
Costs of Prepaid Credit Cards
While prepaid credit cards are easier to obtain than traditional credit cards, they often come with a range of fees that vary from one provider to another. Some are transparent and low-cost, while others include hidden charges that can quickly add up if you’re not careful. Knowing what to look for can help you avoid paying more than necessary.
Common Fees to Expect
- Card issuance fee: Some providers charge a one-time setup fee, often between €5 and €70.
- Monthly or annual fee: May apply even if you don’t use the card. Can range from €0 to €10/month.
- Top-up fees: Certain providers charge when you add money to your card – especially with credit card or cash deposits.
- ATM withdrawal fees: Cash withdrawals in Germany or abroad often cost €1.50 to €5 per transaction, plus possible ATM operator fees.
- Foreign currency fees: Purchases outside the eurozone can incur fees of 1.5% to 3% depending on the provider.
- Inactivity fee: If you don’t use the card for several months, some issuers charge a monthly inactivity penalty.
- Replacement card fee: Lost or damaged cards may cost €10–€25 to replace.
Cost Comparison Table
| Provider | Issuance Fee | Monthly Fee | ATM Fee (Germany) | Foreign Fee | Inactivity Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VIABUY | €69.90 (one-time) | €0 | €5 | 2.75% | €9.95/month after 12 mo inactivity |
| bunq Travel Card | €9.99 | €0 | €0–€2.50 | ~0.5% | None |
| Wise | €7 | €0 | €1.75 | Mid-market rate | €0.50/month after 6 mo |
| Revolut | €0 | €0 | €1–€2 | Mid-market rate | €0 (standard plan) |
Always read the provider’s fee schedule before signing up. Some cards may look free at first glance but include fees in the small print. If you travel often or use the card frequently for online payments, selecting a low-fee card with fair exchange rates can save you a lot.
When Does a Prepaid Credit Card Make Sense?
A prepaid credit card isn’t for everyone – but in certain situations, it’s the most practical, safe, or even the only available choice. Whether you’re new in Germany or just want to avoid debt, prepaid cards offer a unique set of benefits. Here’s when they make the most sense:
For Expats and Newcomers Without SCHUFA
If you’ve just moved to Germany, chances are you don’t yet have a SCHUFA score or a German credit history. That makes it difficult to get traditional credit products. A prepaid card bypasses this issue completely, as most providers don’t run a credit check.
For Students and Young Adults
Students often have limited or no income and may not qualify for regular credit cards. Prepaid cards give access to online payments, travel bookings, and subscriptions without risking overdraft or overspending – ideal for learning financial responsibility.
For Budgeting and Expense Control
Because you can only spend what you load, prepaid cards are excellent tools for controlling spending. They’re often used for setting limits on discretionary spending or managing separate budgets (e.g., travel, online shopping, recurring bills).
For Travel and Security
Many prepaid cards offer multi-currency support, strong mobile security features, and the ability to lock/unlock the card in real-time. This makes them ideal for travel. And if the card is lost or compromised, only the loaded amount is at risk – not your full bank account.
For Online-Only or Subscription Use
If you want a card just for online purchases, digital subscriptions, or linking to Apple Pay/Google Pay, virtual prepaid cards are a lightweight and secure solution. They’re often issued instantly and can include extra features like disposable card numbers.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, most prepaid cards carry the Visa or Mastercard logo and are accepted wherever these networks are supported – including shops, restaurants, online stores, and for travel bookings. However, some services like car rentals or hotel deposits may reject prepaid cards due to the lack of a credit line.
Usually not. Most prepaid credit cards don’t offer a full IBAN-enabled current account, so they can’t be used for direct salary deposits or SEPA direct debits. For that, you’ll need a regular Girokonto.
Yes, like any other card, prepaid credit cards come with an expiration date. Once expired, you must request a replacement. Be sure to withdraw or transfer any remaining balance before expiration to avoid complications.
In most cases, no direct upgrade path exists. However, using financial products responsibly (e.g., a prepaid card + Girokonto) can help you build a positive history and later apply for a real credit card once your SCHUFA score and income situation allow it.